For several reasons, this weekend is a special one in our annual calendar. First, it’s Memorial Day weekend and therefore it is appropriate for us to take time as we gather on Sunday morning to remember those who have lost their lives in the service of our country, to reflect on their willingness to serve and sacrifice, and, of course, to pray for their families and loved ones.
Second, we are celebrating Pentecost and remembering how the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the gathered believers in Jerusalem that day, and how their lives were transformed and empowered to share broad and wide the good news that Jesus is Lord and that “all who call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21) As the birthday anniversary of the Christian Church, Pentecost is always an exciting time of year (Make sure to wear red to church this Sunday morning.
Third, and maybe most special for us in Fernandina Beach, this weekend is also when we celebrate Memorial’s birthday. 201 years ago, our church family was birthed on Amelia Island and in that very same birthing Methodism had arrived in Florida. Ever since, the grace-filled family of Memorial have maintained a vibrant witness of the Wesleyan way of Christian faith. With great love at the center of our life together, we continue to put our faith into action as we play our part in God’s mission through the United Methodist Church - to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. In worship this weekend, our Church Council will be sharing some important and exciting news as to how we will continue to partner in this mission going forward.
So, I hope you will join us in-person for worship this coming Sunday as we mark this special time by combining all our on-campus worship gatherings into one single service in Maxwell Hall at 10:00am (Digital worship will be on YouTube at 11:00am as usual). After worship, we will gather in Central Park to enjoy a time of fellowship and fun together.
I can’t wait to see you there!
Pastor Charlie
